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“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).
As much of the world prepares to celebrate Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ, it is an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of Christmas, life, and the purpose of Christians.
In Christianity, history has proven to be one of the most effective apologetic tools for defending the faith. On December 25, millions will rest from work, spend time with loved ones, and observe a tradition that exists because Jesus Christ entered the world.
From His birth, to His ministry, to the growth and decline of the Roman Empire, Christianity spread across much of the known world. The footprints of Christ’s impact remain evident today.
As civilizations formed and expanded, Christianity often moved with them. From the Apostle Paul to Celtic Christians, Catholic missionaries, and faithful servants throughout history, including today, the message of salvation has remained for thousands of years.
Where is your hope? It is found only in Jesus Christ.
History teaches that Christianity arrived in what is now England, Scotland, and Ireland by around AD 200, and likely earlier in some regions. Celtic Christians took the Great Commission seriously, reaching pagan civilizations, establishing monasteries, and spreading the faith. If one did not know Christ, they soon learned of Him. If one had already embraced Christianity, they were encouraged to deepen their faith.
Christians today can learn much from such faithfulness.
Jesus Christ remains the hope that a dark world can cling to, reminding mankind that our purpose is to love and follow God and to share the Good News of salvation.
Christianity remains strong today, just as it was when Jesus began His ministry. From China to Africa, North America, and Europe, the influence of Christ continues to shape the world. Though some civilizations have attempted to distance themselves from the faith, Christianity has endured and always survives.
For the skeptic or outright atheist, the question is worth asking: how can one man, Jesus Christ, leave such an enduring mark on souls, with His name and message lasting thousands of years across countless generations?
Scripture is clear. The evidence of God is written on the hearts of men. Jesus affirmed this truth by walking among His creation, teaching them, praying with them, and even weeping with them.
The world is fallen, but Jesus is not. In a world of confusion, doubt, and suffering, the mission remains the same as it was the day Christ was born. Mankind longs for hope and meaning. We will either walk with Him or watch our lives fall into ruin.
It is Christ or chaos.
Jesus is alive today, as He was yesterday.
“…And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20).